Fresh perspective for success in healthcare

Understanding Behavioral Differences to Make You a Better Practitioner﻿

Most of us go through our day in somewhat of a habitual way; we have our routines, our patterns, and our responses to what comes at us in our work and in our everyday life. One way to create the best interactions with others that result in the best possible outcomes is to understand your own DiSC behavioral style and how it affects your response to the needs of others.

DiSC is an assessment tool that helps us pinpoint our
behavior style and traits. This understanding is powerful because it can help
us be better bosses, employees, colleagues, and practitioners. Having more
awareness about how we behave—and how others behave—can help us communicate
more effectively; in healthcare, this ability can be paramount to achieving desirable
results.

I recently covered this topic in depth on an episode of BHG’s podcast “Perfecting Your Practice.” If you missed it, you can listen to it here.

What DiSC Means

Here’s a quick summary of the four main DiSC styles, what
their letters stand for, and their behavior types:

Whether you’re interacting with patients, colleagues or
supervisors, appreciating and reacting to behavioral differences can help you
engage in more impactful ways. Knowing the different behavioral styles can help
make some sense of our tendencies and reactions.

First it starts with awareness. Notice your own tendencies, thoughts and responses, then
attempt to understand the other person and from where his or her perspective
might be coming.

Pay attention
to the people you interact with and recognize their style. Is this person more
fast-paced and outspoken, or quiet and thoughtful? Do they tend to be
questioning and critical, or accepting and warm?

Notice those style differences—their pace and what they focus on—and then respond in a
way that speaks their language and helps you connect. For example, a patient
who is a Dominant style will prefer direct communication that focuses on
bottom-line results. The patient will want to interact someone who is confident
and efficient. On the opposite side, a colleague who is a Steadiness
style will appreciate someone who is friendly and caring, and approaches
situations in a conversational way. They like reassurance and to know they are
supported.

And finally, try and notice the shift in the results as you
take control of your reactions and connect with others. Make adjustments as
needed.

At the end of the day, it’s about tailoring your approach
to ensure more fluid communication in a behavioral language you both speak to
ensure the best possible outcome for all.

Allison Whiting

In her role as a consultant and change agent, Allison works extensively with clients to build cohesive leadership teams, identify and develop leadership talent, improve performance management and talent planning, align organizations around key priorities, and build better communication.
Contact Allison at info@alignwithintent.com
View all posts by Allison Whiting